Multiple injuries occurred at Howard University on the afternoon of October 25 at the college’s annual Yardfest concert, reports NBC Washington. People were trampled as groups attempted to gain access to the homecoming festivities.
This is a breaking story so please stay tuned for updates.
Here’s what we know so far:
1. Anarchy Ensued When People Rushed a Gate to the Yardfest Event
It’s reported that groups of students were trampled when they tried to break down the gates at the Yardfest event.
Portions of Howard U campus blocked off because some kind disturbance at Yardfest, part of Homecoming Week. pic.twitter.com/IFydhCpcww
— John Henrehan FOX 5 (@JohnHFox5DC) October 25, 2013
2. Yardfest is One of the Biggest Events in Howard’s Homecoming Schedule
Howard’s homecoming celebrations are going on all weekend with a parade set for Saturday morning at 10 a.m., it’s not known yet if any further events will be canceled due to today’s incident. In the past the event has attracted artists such as Jay-Z, The Notorious B.I.G., and Kanye West to perform. Complex.com describes the event as:
You have the best chance of spotting them—and other random celebrities—during Yardfest, a free outdoor concert-meets-reunion that takes place on the Friday of Homecoming Week.
This year, slated to perform were A$AP Ferg, Big Sean, Juicy J and Bone Thugs-n-Harmony.
3. Organizers Were Charging For Entry Into Yardfest
Are you excited for YARDFEST 2013?
— #HUHomecomingEvents (@HUhomecoming13) October 24, 2013
Students were reportedly angry that officials had decided to charge $5 to get into the event this year.
Charging for Yardfest has to be the dumbest idea. . . ever!! I hope @BisonHomecoming learns from the horrible mistake.
— Trell J. Harris (@trellers101) October 25, 2013
4. Ambulances Were Called to 6th Street NW and Howard Place
The injuries are all reported off the college’s campus.
5. DC Metro Have Said That 2 Officers Are Hurt
#DCPolice say 2 officers have been injured and at least 5 others reported with other injuries at #howarduniversity @nbcwashington #yardfest
— Melinda Woolbright (@milynnde) October 25, 2013
There are also reports of minor injuries to officers. Five others are reported to have been injured. All of the injuries are said to be non-life threatening.
Injured students have been taken to @HowardU Hospital for non-life- threatening injuries, according to local authorities. #HUHC
— Denise Sawyer WBOC (@DeniseSawyerTV) October 25, 2013